US military raises max enlistment age by seven years and axes a restriction

• The U.S. Army has raised its maximum enlistment age from 35 to 42 years old in an effort to boost recruitment.
• This policy change follows the Army's failure to meet its enlistment targets in 2022 and 2023, indicating a need to broaden its recruitment pool.
• Effective from April, the new age limit applies to the Army, the Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army Reserve.
• Further adjustments include easing restrictions for potential recruits with a single conviction for marijuana possession or drug paraphernalia.
• The average age of Army recruits has been steadily increasing, reflecting a deliberate strategy to attract candidates from a wider range of backgrounds and life stages.

IN FULL

US Army quietly raises enlistment age – and removes some criminal convictions restrictions – to bolster struggling recruitment